Intelligence Career Conversations

In this ICC podcast episode, host Jim Donnelly sits down with The Hon. Ellen McCarthy, CEO and Founder of the Trust in Media Cooperative and a longtime leader in the U.S. intelligence community, as she recounts her unconventional journey, from freelance reporter to Soviet submarine analyst to Assistant Secretary of State for INR. In this engaging conversation, she shares lessons learned on her rise to senior leadership, reflects on overcoming imposter syndrome, highlights the power of mentorship, and discusses what drove her to launch the Trust in Media Cooperative to strengthen the nation’s information ecosystem.

On this episode of The Unredacted Resume, host Lindy Kyzer is joined by Murshed Chowdhury (Founder & CEO, Tech Duels, and Partner, Rapid Talent Group) and Jamie Jones Miller (Regional Dean, Northeastern University Arlington) to discuss what it takes to stand out in the intelligence and national security job market. The conversation covers recruiter relationships, mindset shifts, and practical steps for finding the right fit.

On this episode of the Intelligence Career Conversations podcast, host Jim Donnelly is joined by Chris Jones, Chief Technology Officer at Nightwing. Chris shares his extensive background in the IC, his transition from public to private sector, and the importance of continuous learning. He delves into challenges facing the IC today, particularly technology adoption and the need for skilled AI and cybersecurity professionals. 

On this episode of The Unredacted Resume, hosts Brian Drake and Lindy Kyzer sit down to share practical tips to help your resume make an impact where it counts. From tackling common pitfalls to understanding what hiring managers look for to translating specialized government roles into language that resonates with industry employers, they offer clear, actionable advice to help you stand out in a competitive job market. 

On this episode of the ICC podcast, host Jim Donnelly is joined by Amber Nicholas, INSA Advisory Committee Member and Principal Account Executive for National Security at AWS. Tune in as Amber reflects on her experience at the intersection of technology and national security. She shares her perspective on continuous learning, staying adaptable in the face of emerging technologies, and why relationships, mentorship, and putting people first are at the core of lasting impact. 

In this episode of The Unredacted Resume, host Brian Drake is joined by Elisabeth Baker Pham (Partner, Kalijarvi, Chuzi, Newman & Fitch) and Mika Cross, (CEO, Strategy@Work), who break down the essentials every federal employee should know before separating from service. From resume reviews and ethics filings to separation letters and clearance status, this conversation offers practical guidance to ensure a smooth and well-prepared transition.

On this episode of the ICC Podcast, host Jim Donnelly speaks with Erringer Helbling, CEO of Demati, about building a career at the intersection of intelligence, cybersecurity, and corporate leadership. From military service to safeguarding global enterprises, Erringer reflects on how a commitment to service has shaped her path, whether protecting missions, mentoring colleagues, or leading with integrity.

The Unredacted Resume is a new miniseries podcast hosted by Brian Drake and Lindy Kyzer. In this inaugural episode, Lindy is joined by COL Candice Frost, USA (Ret.), Senior Account Executive at Nightwing, and The Hon. John Sherman, Dean of The Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University. Tune in as they discuss key hiring trends, high-demand skillsets, and strategies for mid-career professionals navigating career transitions in today's evolving national security job market. 

On this week's episode of the Intelligence Career Conversations podcast, host Jim Donnelly welcomes Dr. Lisa Costa, National Security Executive at Seekr. From her early days in special operations to standing up Space Force's tech and innovation enterprise, Dr. Costa shares advice for young professionals on finding their voice, embracing complexity, and staying mission-focused in a rapidly evolving field. 

On this week's episode of the Intelligence Career Conversations podcast, Jim Donnelly welcomes Donald Blersch, Senior Vice President for Government Innovation at Clearspeed. Tune in as Don reflects on his 35+ year career serving across the intelligence and national security community. The discussion includes his path into the IC, transitioning from technical roles to leadership, and advice for young professionals navigating their careers.

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Nightwing!